Design

The C6.6 features a compact design with heavy-duty engine features for outstanding durability, reliability and performance. The C6.6 incorporates a new cross flow cylinder head design, a 4 valve head and an ADEM A4 electronic controller.

Electronic Controls

The C6.6 engines use advanced electronic controllers, which have a proven track record for performance and reliability. ADEM A4 Electronic Control Module (ECM) receives data from engine-mounted sensors and adjusts critical parameters to maintain optimum performance. These adjustments also optimize fuel economy and emissions compliance. Electronics also make engines easier to troubleshoot and repair.

Fuel Delivery

Fuel is introduced in the combustion chamber in a number of precisely controlled microbursts. Injecting fuel in this way allows for precise shaping of the combustion process. The ADEM™ A4 module directs the injectors to deliver precise quantities of fuel at exactly the right times during combustion for optimum efficiency and performance.

Air Management

The C6.6 uses a turbocharger fitted with a smart waste gate to give precise control of the boost pressure. Over the entire engine operating ranges the result is improved: Throttle response, Lower fuel Consumption and optimized engine performance. A new cross-flow design in the cylinder head facilitates air movement, while tighter tolerances between the piston and cylinder liner are reducing blow by gases.

Turbocharged and Aftercooled

A well-matched turbocharger and air-to-air aftercooler results in higher power while keeping rpm steady and exhaust temperatures low.

Cooling System

The cooling system is a single coolant unit including hydraulic oil cooler, radiator, ATAAC and fan installation. Aluminum cores and hydraulically driven demand fan provide optimum cooling and fuel efficiency.

Electric Fuel Priming Pump

A standard electric fuel priming pump is located in the primary fuel filter base above the combined water separator / primary fuel filter. A switch enables to easily prime the fuel system after a fuel filter service.

Drive Train

The D6K features an electronically controlled hydrostatic drive system with independent power and control of each track for fast acceleration, variable speed control, and on-the-go direction changes.

Hydrostatic Drive

The electronically controlled hydrostatic drive system automatically maintains engine speed to match the power requirements of the application for peak performance. The hydrostatic drive train also offers independent power and control of each track, for fast acceleration, infinitely variable speed control and on-the-go, direction changes for each track. The operator can command smooth “power turns” or even counter-rotation of the tracks for precise steering control in tight areas. The Caterpillar hydrostatic drive system manages itself, freeing the operator to concentrate on using the Caterpillar track-type tractor’s superb agility, speed, and maneuverability to do more productive work.

Infinitely Variable Speed Control

Hydrostatic drive provides infinite speed selection from 0 to 10 km/h (0 to 6.2 mph) in forward and reverse. This lets the operator select the optimum speed for ground and job conditions. It also eliminates power interruption during shifting.

Ground Speed Balancing

Hydrostatic drive provides a completely “step-less” transmission of power and automatically matches travel speed and implement loads for increased efficiency and easier operation.

High Power Utilization

The hydrostatic drive system on the D6K is designed to use full available engine power throughout the machine working cycle. If the implement hydraulic system is not in use, this engine power can be delivered to the drive train, providing high drawbar pull and fast travel speeds. If the implement hydraulics are being worked hard, the machine control ECM will automatically slow the tracks as necessary to use the full remaining engine power, without overloading and stalling the engine. As soon as the implement hydraulic load is decreased, the machine control ECM will automatically speed up the tracks until the machine is traveling at the speed the operator has commanded with the Hystat Control (left).

Unsurpassed Maneuverability

Power turn and counter-rotation capability improve machine maneuverability and productivity. On the D6K, power turns are accomplished by slowing the speed of one track versus the other, while maintaining power to both tracks. The Cat Hystat power turn feature also enables the D6K to handle large loads around corners or through hard spots encountered when dozing. Power turn capability improves machine mobility in soft underfoot conditions and is very effective for controlling machine operation on side slopes. Counter-rotation also provides easy, quick maneuvering in tight areas or congested job sites.

Structure

Main Frame

The D6K one-piece main frame is designed to absorb high impact shock loads and twisting forces. Robotic welding provides deep penetration and consistency, ensuring high quality, durability and reliability throughout the structure.

Track Roller Frame

Track roller frames feature an engineered box-section design, which provides superior strength and resistance to bending. Equalizer bars are pinned in their center to the machine main frame and at the ends to each track roller frame. This allows the forward ends of the track roller frames to oscillate to keep more track on the ground in uneven underfoot conditions while providing maximum traction and operator comfort.

Operator Station

Operator Station

The operator station features an ergonomic layout emphasizing simplicity, ease of use and comfort. Standard air conditioning, generous leg room and superior visibility allow the operator to focus on the job. With more glass area, the operator station provides a clear view to the blade and the surrounding work site.

Air suspended seat

The Caterpillar C500 Comfort air suspended seat is available in cloth or vinyl and is fully adjustable, for maximum operator comfort. A standard lumbar adjustment provides excellent lower back support. For comfortable operation in cold weather, a heated cloth seat is available.

Seat-mounted controls

For optimum comfort and precise control, the D6K features ergonomically designed seat-mounted controls. Seat-mounted controls isolate vibrations from the operator, and provide independent seat and controls adjustment. Individual wrist pads and armrests can be adjusted independently for optimum comfort.

Messenger

Messenger is an electronic monitoring system with real-time, visual feedback on engine and machine operating conditions. It provides information on machine performance, fuel consumption, diagnostics, and allows the operator to set some parameters, such as implement and steering modulation.

Brake and Decel pedal

The D6K features a single, combined hystat brake and decel pedal. Two braking configurations are available through this pedal:

Transmission braking only: As the pedal is pressed, the machine will slow by braking the transmission; no engine decel will occur.

Transmission braking and engine decel: As the pedal is pressed, the machine will slow by simultaneously braking the transmission and reducing the engine speed.

When the pedal is depressed beyond the detent, the service brakes will be applied.

Bulldozer Control

The blade is controlled with an ergonomically designed joystick located to the right of the operator. This joystick includes a thumb wheel that controls blade angle. AccuGrade buttons are conveniently located on the joystick for quick, efficient actuation. For non-AccuGrade equipped machines, a blade shake button provides aggressive blade movement for effective removal of sticky material.

Speed and Direction Control

The operator controls the speed of the machine and the direction of travel with a single joystick control located on the left console. This joystick includes a thumb wheel for precise speed control, as well as a convenient button to store and recall operator-defined, independent operating speeds for forward and reverse.

Work Tool Controls

The D6K can be equipped with either a ripper or a winch. For maximum flexibility, the D6K can be configured for ripper control, winch control, or a selectable ripper or winch control.

Other cab features

For optimum operator comfort, the D6K operator station includes the following amenities:

Foot rests for slope work

Air filter

Two 12-volt power points

Storage compartment

Cup holder

Dome light

Rearview mirror

Coat hook

Radio ready factory installed components

Rear attachment mirror

SystemOne™ Undercarriage

Exclusively for Caterpillar machines the SystemOne™ Undercarriage is a revolutionary new undercarriage system - from the ground up.

SystemOne™ Undercarriage

Exclusively for Caterpillar machines the design extends system life and reduces operating costs.

Long-life Sprocket. Extended life sprockets will outlast two or more tracks. The rotating bushing technology extends life.

Guiding System. The guiding system contacts link rails instead of pin ends and helps keep the track within the roller system. The result is improved track guiding.

Rollers. The increased flange diameter on the rollers provide optimum guiding and longer life.

Carrier Rollers. Redesigned carrier rollers are factory sealed and serviced as a unit. The larger diameter provides extended wear to better match undercarriage system life.

Idlers. The center tread idlers contact only the bushing - not the links - eliminating scalloping and providing more guiding to the link assembly. The idlers last longer because they contact a rotating bushing instead of a link rail.

Cartridge Joints. Factory-sealed cartridge joints are laser welded to control end play. They offer improved seal integrity through an innovative new sealing system and do not depend on the link interface to remain sealed. As with all Cat undercarriage products, they are filled with special oils.

May be used in any application.

The track roller frames are welded and have a box section design, which provides strength and resistance to bending without adding extra weight.

The track adjuster and mechanical recoil spring and grease filled adjustment cylinder which allows the idler to move forward and back to maintain proper track tension as it absorbs undercarriage shock.

Undercarriage Arrangements

XL (Extra Long) arrangement

Forward idler position provides more track on the ground and to the front of the tractor. It provides optimal balance, superior traction and blade control for finish grading.

Complete Guarding

Caterpillar undercarriages are designed with full length guarding on top of the track roller frame. This prevents abrasive materials from being recirculated in the track.

Roller Frames

Roller frames attach to the tractor by a pivot shaft and pinned equalizer bar.

Oscillating Undercarriage

The pinned equalizer bar is saddle-mounted beneath the mainframe, allowing the roller frames and track to oscillate. The oscillation provides a steady working platform and smooth ride for the operator.

AccuGrade® Laser and GPS Machine Control and Guidance Systems

AccuGrade System for Track-Type Tractors

Caterpillar is helping customers revolutionize the way they move material with new technology solutions for earthmoving machines — solutions that provide greater accuracy, higher productivity, lower operating costs and more profitability. The AccuGrade System is designed and integrated into the machine and hydraulic systems to create an automated blade control system that allows operators to grade with increased accuracy. The system uses machine-mounted sensors to calculate precise blade slope and elevation information. The integrated electrohydraulic valve control module uses the information received from the sensors to automatically adjust the blade to maintain grade. Automated blade control allows operators to improve efficiency and productivity by achieving grade faster and in fewer passes than ever before, reducing the need for traditional survey stakes or grade checkers.

AccuGrade Ready Option

The factory ready option machine makes system installation and setup quick and easy, and optimizes performance and reliability.

Hydraulic control systems are integrated into the machine hydraulics for maximum performance and dependability.

AccuGrade controls are integrated into the machine controls and levers for reliable operation and precise control.

Wiring harnesses and cables are routed during assembly for improved wear protection and better reliability.

System is designed to withstand vibration for long life in rugged working environments.

Safety interlock feature is built in for added protection during automated operation.

AccuGrade Laser

AccuGrade Laser designed for precise grade control using a laser transmitter and receiver. A laser transmitter is set up on the work site and creates a constant grade reference over the work area. A digital laser receiver is mounted on the machine and captures the laser signal as the machine moves across the work site. The system captures information and calculates the blade adjustments necessary to achieve grade. The system makes automatic elevation adjustments typically performed by the operator and provides automatic blade control. The operator simply steers the machine. The system also calculates cut/fill requirements for manual blade control.

AccuGrade GPS

AccuGrade GPS computes the positioning information on the machine, compares the position of the blade relative to the design plan and delivers that information to the operator via an in-cab display. Information, such as blade elevation, necessary cut/fill to achieve grade, visual indication of the blade’s position on the design surface and a graphical view of the design plan with machine location. AccuGrade GPS puts all the information the operator needs to complete the job in the cab, resulting in a greater level of control. Vertical and horizontal guidance tools visually guide the operator to the desired grade. Automated features allow the hydraulic system to automatically control blade adjustments to move the blade to grade. The operator simply uses the light bars to guide the machine for consistent, accurate grades and slopes, resulting in higher productivity with less fatigue.

Serviceability and Accessibility

Grouped service points and easy maintenance result in increased machine up-time.

Easy diagnostics

The Compact Instrument Cluster allows for quick identification of problems and its cause, utilizing a three level warning system. This monitoring system can easily be upgraded by flashing software.

Engine compartment

All the regular engine maintenance is made through a large, hinged door located on the left side of the machine. This compartment gives access to the engine fuel filters and water separator, the engine oil filter, the engine oil dipstick and filler, the electric fuel priming pump, and the engine air pre-cleaner and filters.

Cooling package

Cores and fan are accessible from ground level, for easy cleaning and maintenance. Opening the radiator front grid will allow full access to the engine fan. The fan is mounted on a swing-out door that will provide access to the cores. The other side of the cores is accessible through the engine compartment.

Grouped pressure taps

Pressure taps allow for quick measure and troubleshooting of the hydraulic system. These pressure taps are all located in the left service access door, and are accessible from ground level.

Ecology Drains

Ecology drains provide an environmentally safer method to drain fluids. They are included on the radiator (coolant) and the hydraulic tank, and for the engine oil change.

Product Link

The optional Product Link system is a factory installed or easily retrofitted wireless system that simplifies equipment fleet tracking. Using satellite or cellular technology, the system automatically reports key machine parameters such as location, machine hours, active and logged service codes and security alarms. Depending on the Product Link version, it can connect with other on-board systems, issue e-mail or pager alerts and provide fuel consumption data.

Cat Machine Security System (MSS)

MSS uses electronically coded keys selected by the customer to limit usage by individuals or time parameters. MSS deters theft, vandalism and unauthorized usage. Each machine system can store up to 255 keys and each key can be used on as many machines as desired. MSS can be controlled by a Personal Data Assistant. Field installation is available.

Work Tools

Cat® Work Tools and Ground Engaging Tools (G.E.T.) are designed to provide strength and flexibility to match the machine to the job, maximizing performance.

Foldable Blade

In order to comply with transportation regulations, a foldable blade is offered on the XL configuration. Without blade removal, the machine will be within the 2.55 meter (8.5 ft) width requirement.

C-Frame

C-Frame is solidly pinned to the mainframe for good blade control and eliminates blade motion due to track oscillation or side forces.

C-Frame to tractor joint is sealed and lubricated with remote lines for extended service life and quiet operation.

Large C-Frame tower bearings improve durability.

Lubrication points are located at all pin joints to reduce wear.

Parallelogram Ripper

The multi-shank parallelogram ripper lets you choose one, two or three shanks depending on job conditions. Curved or straight shanks are available. High strength mainframe allows having stiffer ripper mounting blocks for severe drawbar applications.

Drawbar

The D6K is equipped with a drawbar for pulling work tools such as:

Disks

Compactors

Chopper wheels

Retrieval of other equipment

Hydrostatic Winch

PA50 winch is driven by its own closed-loop hydrostatic system consisting of a variable displacement hydraulic piston pump and motor. This winch offers outstanding control of the load with infinitely variable modulation of speed and pull, and lowers operator effort. Check with your Caterpillar Dealer for details.

Sweeps and Screens

Optional sweeps and screens are available. Sweeps help to shield critical components on the tractor such as hydraulic lines, exhaust stacks, cab windows and lights from damage. Screens provide protection to the cab windows. This equipment is recommended for land clearing, forestry or other severe applications.

Total Customer Support

Your Cat Dealer offers a wide range of services that can be set up with a Customer Support Agreement. The dealer can customize a plan for you, from PM service to total machine maintenance, allowing you to optimize your return on investment.

Product Support

Your Cat Dealer offers a wide range of services that can be set up under a Customer Support Agreement (CSA) when you purchase your equipment. The dealer will help you choose a plan that can cover everything from the machine and attachment selection to replacement. This will help you get the best return on your investment.

Remanufactured Components

Save money with remanufactured parts. You receive the same warranty and reliability as new products at a cost savings of 40 to 70 percent.

Service Capability

Whether in the dealer’s fully equipped shop or in the field, you will get trained service technicians using the latest technology and tools.

Selection

Make detailed comparisons of the machines you are considering before you buy. How long do components last? What is the cost of preventive maintenance? What is the true cost of lost production? Your Cat Dealer can give you answers to these questions.

Purchase

Consider the financing options available as well as day-to-day operating costs. This is also the time to look at dealer services that can be included in the cost of the machine to yield lower equipment owning and operating costs over the long run.

Operation

Improving operating techniques can boost your profits. Your Cat Dealer has training videotapes, literature and other ideas to help you increase productivity.

Replacement

Repair, rebuild or replace? Your Cat Dealer can help evaluate the cost involved so you can make the right choice.

Maintenance

More and more equipment buyers are planning for effective maintenance before buying equipment. Choose from your dealer’s wide range of maintenance services at the time of your purchase. Repair option programs guarantee the cost of repairs up front. Diagnostic programs such as Scheduled Oil Sampling and Technical Analysis help avoid unscheduled repairs.